The Minnesota Vikings are entering an offseason filled with crucial decisions, and one of the most pressing involves their tight end, T.J. Hockenson. Known for his talent, Hockenson now finds himself at a crossroads due to his hefty contract.
Hockenson's deal is a significant financial burden, with a $21.4 million cap hit looming in 2026-the highest among tight ends. The Vikings are in a tight cap situation, and cutting Hockenson could free up nearly $9 million, a tempting option for a team looking to balance its books.
The financial strain is compounded by the big bucks already committed to star wide receiver Justin Jefferson. This could push the Vikings to consider moving on from either Hockenson or another key player, Jordan Addison.
At the very least, a contract restructure for Hockenson seems likely if he wants to remain in Minnesota. However, releasing such a weapon outright might send shockwaves through the football world, given the Vikings' aspirations as contenders.
Hockenson's performance has also dipped. In 2025, he averaged a career-low 6.6 yards per target and has only found the end zone three times since 2024. With his 29th birthday approaching, the Vikings must weigh his current form against his past prowess.
Adding to the complexity, the Vikings face uncertainty at the quarterback position, a far more critical issue. This means they need to swiftly resolve Hockenson's situation to focus on securing their future under center.
Ultimately, the Vikings must make a decisive call on Hockenson, allowing them to redirect their attention to the pivotal quarterback dilemma.